Description

Copper-Nickel 1856 Half Cent PatternJudd-177, PR63

1856 E1/2C Half Cent, Judd-177, Pollock-205, R.5, PR63 NGC.
The regular half cent dies of 1856 but, continuing the metallic
composition experiments begun in 1850 that would lead to the
successful introduction of the copper-nickel small cents, the
planchets for these pieces are copper-nickel, either 88:12 or
90:10. Struck with a plain edge. These are experimental alloy
pieces, and apparently the difference in alloy was not noticeable
to many people who saw them in the 19th century and quite a few
were spent. This is a deeply mirrored proof striking that shows a
lovely mixture of red and blue on each side. Sharply defined in
most areas.
From The Van Treuren Collection. (PCGS# 11777)